Sears Shmears-Not-So-Easy Exchange Card

Don't let them give you an "Easy Exchange Card" when you return an item without a receipt. Get a Gift Card (in lieu of a refund or credit card credit) if you want to purchase something that can only be had on-line. I learned the hard way when I returned some clothing and wanted to buy a kitchen scale.

They had none in the store and a marginally helpful sales associate (that's what they call cashiers these days) found it on their website. It was only sold on-line. She said I could use my so-called Easy Exchange Card to pay for the on-line purchase.

No such luck. Upon checking out I hit a wall and had to call the number on the back of the card. The receipt number the machine asked for could not be found. I tried 3 times. I spoke to a customer frustration representative who told me the awful truth. I had to go back to a store (what a horror) to purchase a Gift Card with my Easy Exchange Card. Then I could make my purchase on-line.

Why, why, why is there even a difference????? Aside from the stupid (yes, I said "stupid") cashier that kept telling me not to get mad, I'm confronted with some byzantine corporate hooey that makes me almost disinclined to go back in that store. But I want my due. I spent the money and I want something for it. Maybe I should send them a bill for the gas I have to waste because some pencil pushers have worked out a way to frustrate you into leaving your money with them and walking out with nothing in your hands.

Don't let them snow you. Get the Gift Card.